Pastor Bob DuPar
September 5, 2008

Journal Entry



Scripture

Ecclesiastes 10:1-12:14; 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; Psalm 49:1-20; Proverbs 22:20-21

Observation

Ecclesiastes 10:4 stood out to me,

“If a ruler’s anger rises against you, do not leave your post; calmness can lay great errors to rest.”

And 11:1,

“Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again.”

Ecclesiastes 12:12 reminds me of seminary,

“Of many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.”

After Solomon has picked apart every area of life and has declared his finding: “Meaningless, meaningless, all is meaningless!” Here is his conclusion,

“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.”

I am thoroughly impressed by the Macedonian churches Paul writes about in 2 Corinthians 8:2-5,
“Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. And they…gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will.”

And then, 8:9 sums it all up,

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.”

Application

The distillation of Solomon’s wisdom is: fear God and keep His commandments. This is success in life. This leads to true fulfillment. Obedience is not always fun, convenient or popular – but, it’s what we are all called to.

I just felt like the example of the Macedonian churches provides such a great model for all of us as we seek to serve God and His followers: Giving ourselves first to the Lord and then to others in keeping with His will. If I give myself first to God He will continually direct me as to where I should serve, and where His presence and love are needed.

Prayer

“Lord, help me to follow You with all of my heart and to act upon the promptings of Your Spirit – to go where You lead and to do all that You ask of me.”